Kalam Aur Kala...

. The Navapatrika Story By Nilima Sharma This story is of the traditional plant worship that is performed during the Navaratri puja that culminates in Dussera. It starts with the introduction to the pre-Vedic Pastoral Goddesses and the leaves that were associated with them. It also briefly covers the medicinal values of each leaf type. Next it introduces the herbs, colours, and flowers that are associated with Durga Puja. Lastly it tells how most of these plants are seen growing in Rakshak Society. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 100

. Navapatrikas of the Navaratri Goddesses Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharadotsav, is a popular festival celebrated among the Bengali community, mainly celebrated across eastern India. The festival culminates on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra. Durga Puja coincides with Navratri, which is celebrated in the central and western parts of the country. On the early hours of Saptami, Goddess Durga is invoked in a group of nine plants bunched together, called Navapatrika, and tied to the twigs of white Aparajita plant with a yellow thread. These nine plants represent the nine manifestations of Goddess. Navapatrika was actually a popular ritual performed by the peasant folks for prosperous harvest. As idol worship was not common then, people worshipped Mother nature. It was during the autumn, the time for reaping crops, peasants worshipped Goddess Navapatrika for good harvest. Later when Durga Puja became a popular festival of \"Sharat\", all the nine holy rituals of the Nabapatrika, were added to the ceremonies of Durga Puja. In fact Nabapatrika represented the primitive form of Durga Puja. This primitive form of worship is still prevalent in some places. The nine plant goddesses of the holy Nabapatrika are: Ashoka tree represents Shokarahita. Pomegranate tree represents Raktadantika. Jayanti tree represents Kaumari. Colocasia plant represents Kaalika. Turmeric plant represents Durga Arum plant represents Chamunda. Bael tree represents Maheswari. Rice plants represents Lakshmi. Banana plant represents Brahmani K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 101

. The nine Pre-Vedic Pastoral Goddesses K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 102

. The Navapatrikas Asoka leaves Pomegranate Jayanti leaves Goddess Shokarahita. leaves Goddess Kaumari. Goddess Raktadantika Black Arbi leaves Turmeric Leaves Elephant ear Taro Goddess Kalika leaves Goddess Durga Goddess Chamunda Bael leaves Rice paddy Banana Leaves Goddess Maheshwari Goddess Goddess Brahmani Lakshmi K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 103

. Medicinal values of the Navapatrikas 1.Ashoka (Saraca asoca) Ashoka tree Barks or leaves, when consumed, help to remove worms from the stomach and thus provide relief from pain and swelling. The bark of the ashoka tree also has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and pain relieving properties. Ashoka has various medicinal properties, especially its bark and leaves. Ashoka helps to manage various gynecological and menstrual problems in women such as heavy, irregular and painful periods. Taking Ashoka bark juice or kwath can also promote healthy skin due to its blood purifying property 2. Pomegranate leaves: Anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties present in pomegranate leaves help in eliminating bacteria present in the mouth. You can use the juice made from pomegranate leaves to treat ulcers in the mouth Insomnia sleeplessness: Wash, clean and crush leaves of Pomegranate (3 gm). Now add these in water (200 ml) and cook till volume reduces to one fourth. Drink before going to bed. Jaundice, the liver problem, vomiting, digestive problem: Collect its leaves, clean them. Dry in shade. Grind to make powder. Take 3 gm twice a day. Eczema: Apply Pomegranate Leaves juice on the affected area. Mouth ulcer, Sores: Wash and clean leaves (20-25 gm) of anar. Crush, add these in water (400 ml) and cook till volume reduces to one fourth. Filter and gargle. Ear pain, ear problems: Wash and clean leaves (10-15 gm) of anar. Now crush and extract juice in mortar and pestle. Cook in sesame oil (equal quantity to juice). Put few drops in ear. Wrinkles, loose skin: Extract leaves juice (1 liter) and cook in half liter Til oil. Cook on low flame till all water evaporates. Use this oil for massaging regularly. Another miracle ingredient that works wonders for the heart and overall health is the bark of pomegranate tree contains an alkaloid called punicine, which has anthelmintic properties that help in getting rid of intestinal worms. Boil the bark in water, remove from flame and then let it rest overnight. Strain the water and drink it on an empty stomach early in the morning. Drinking fresh pomegranate juice can also help keep your system working efficiently. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 104

. 3. Jayanti leaves Health benefits of Jayanti leaves Lower Your Blood Pressure and Help Keep Arteries Flexible. Including vitamin C rich food in your normal diet plays a strong role in heart health. Supports Normal Foetal Development. Beneficial for skin and Boosts Immunity. Prevents Alzheimer's disease and helps in migraine and weakness. 4. Black stemmed arbi leaves Health benefits of the black stemmed arbi leaf (Colocasia leaves) Taro leaves are excellent source of vitamin C, a water-soluble antioxidant. Effective in reducing breast cancer cells and can lower colon cancer rate. Rich in vitamin A, the leaves help in keeping eyes healthy, maintaining good vision and preventing age-related macular degeneration. Lowers high blood pressure due to the presence of saponins, tannins, carbohydrate and flavonoids. Boosts the immune system. Prevents Diabetes. Helps digestion. Reduces inflammation. Protects the nervous system and prevents anaemia. 5. Turmeric leaves Incredible benefits of Turmeric leaves Cooking. Run out of turmeric? The extract of dried turmeric leaves soaked in water can serve the same purpose Boosts Digestion. Crushed turmeric or haldi leaves can help boost digestion and reduce problems of gas and bloating. Strong Anti-inflammatory Properties. Due to the strong anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, turmeric leaves could prove to be a boon for those suffering osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Beauty Benefits. Turmeric leaves can be crushed into a paste and applied to the skin. The paste will help keep your skin soft, smooth and glowing. It will also help keep the dark spots or blemishes away. It also has antiseptic properties. 6. Man kachu leaf/giant taro ( Alocasia indica) It is staple food in various cuisines. While consuming cooked taro leaves may offer some health benefits, it's important to note that the raw leaves are poisonous before cooking. Young taro leaves and stems can be eaten after boiling twice to remove the acrid flavor. The leaves are a good source of vitamins A and C and contain more protein than the corms. In its raw form, the plant is toxic due to the presence of calcium oxalate, and the presence of needle-shaped raphides in the plant cells. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 105

. 7. Bilva leaves (Aege marmelos) The roots, skin, leaves, fruit, everything of the tree is used to cure various ailments. The sacred tree can cure problems like bleeding gums, dysentery, asthma, jaundice, anaemia etc. Hence, Belpatra is extremely important in Hinduism. Can cure diarrhoea, cholera, haemorrhoids, vertigo. The presence of tannin in the bael fruit helps in curing diseases like diarrhoea and cholera. Bael has certain phenolic compounds containing anti-oxidants that help in fighting gastric ulcers. This type of ulcer is caused due to the imbalance in the acidic level in the stomach. The extract of bael leaf can be used to control the cholesterol level in blood which makes the bael leaves highly therapeutic too. Inflammation can be quickly cured when the extract of bael is applied on the inflamed region. 8. Rice paddy Health benefits of rice include providing fast and instant energy, good bowel movement, stabilizing blood sugar levels and providing essential source of vitamin B1 to human body. Other benefits include skin care, resistance to high blood pressure, dysentery and heart diseases. 9. Banana leaves Traditionally known as kadali phalam, banana plant has large, flexible, waterproof leaves that are also used for cooking, wrapping and serving food. What started as a tradition down in South India thousands of years ago is now also proving to be a healthy trend. Eating on banana leaves isn‘t only flavourful, eco-friendly, hygienic and practical but also chemical free. Eating on banana leaves is healthy in every way. It is packed with polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants that is also found in green tea. These polyphenols battle all the free radicals in the body and prevent diseases. Banana leaf is also rich in polyphenol oxidase which is an enzyme to treat Parkinson‘s disease. Banana leaves also have peculiar anti- bacterial properties that can kill germs in the food and aids proper digestion. Banana leaves also have a wax coating that gives it a glossy finish that adds on a subtle flavour to the hot food that is served on it. All these leaves are seen growing in Rakshak Society. In the individual plots or along the internal roads. The banana in seen in many houses, the Mankar garden has the Sita Ashoka at the entrance. Bilva in the children‟s playground, Manorama Sundd‟s entrance and Dr Mishra‟s entrance. Jayanti/ Agasti used to bloom in front of the Allahabad Bank. Aruna Marva has it growing in her farm. Turmeric grows in many homes. So does the Dalimb, alu with the black stem and Elephant ear called man kachu. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 106

. 9 herbs of the Navaratri Goddess Day of Goddess Colour and flower Herb Navaratri Pratipada Shaliputri Orange / marigold Harda Dwitiya Brahmacharini White / White lotus Brahmi grass Tritiya Chandragantah Red / Red Lotus Chandrika/ Aliv Chaturthi Kushmanda Blue / Blue Water lilly Kushmanda/ white pumkin Panchami Skandamata Yellow / Yellow lotus Linseed/ Alsi/ Javas Sashti Katyayani Green / Green Champa Machika / Berge Jhau / Pharva (Tamarix gattlca) Saptami Kalarati Silver grey / Damanaka Nagadaur (Artemisa dracunculus) leaves (Artemisia Indica) Tulsi Satawari Ashthami Mahagauri Purple / Pink Lotus All the nine herbs Navami Siddhidharti Peacock green / krishna kamal Dashami Durga Red and pink / Lotus / Jasvandi/ Red Rose 9 herbs of the Navaratri Goddess Harda Harda seeds Brahmi grass Aliv/ garden cress Chandrika/Aliv Kushmand/ Petha pumpkin Alsi/Javas/ Machika/Berge Jhav/ Pharva Machika/Berge Jhav/ Pharva Nagadaun Tulsi Satavari K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 107

. These herbs are called Durga kavach that protect us from ill health. 1. Harda: in the powder form is called haritaki, is used in triphala. Rich in vitamin C, it has anti-oxidant and anti- inflammatory effects. Promotes in healing of sore throat and allergies to constipation and indigestion. 2. Brahmi grass: Brahmi is a therapeutic herb commonly used as a memory enhancer. Brahmi has antioxidants that are essential for living a healthy life. Brahmi regulates the blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes 3. Chandrica, commonly called Aliv: Aliv seeds help to clear the digestive tract effectively, thus providing relief from constipation and indigestion. Helps in weight loss. Aliv seeds contain antioxidants that prevent cancer groth. It helps boost the immune system. When grown as garden cress, it is an excellent source of protein, folic acid, calcium, iron, fiber and vitamins A and E. 4. Kushmand / white petha pumpkin:It is rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and zinc. It is light om the stomach and easy to digest. 5. Alsi / Javas / Flax seed:Flax seeds are very high in fibre (this helps promote weight loss). Omega 3 fatty acids good for the heart. Very rich in vitamins, reduces the bad cholesterol (LDL) and lowers the high BP (30 gms- 3 tablespoon of javas). There is no end to the benefits of Javas. In Maharastra it is made into a dry chutney powder. 6. Machika / Barge jhav:Its flower, seed oil and leaves are used as Ayurveda medicine. Its bark is used as a tooth powder. The powder is made into paste with water or honey. It is best given by Ayurveda doctor. 7. Nagdaun: It is said that merely planting Nagadaun herb in the garden is enough to do away with many troubles. Said to stop abnormal bleeding from any part of the body K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 108

. such as piles, periods and ulcerative colitis. Tender leaves with black pepper to be chewed. Heat the crushed leaves with oil and apply to boils. Duddhi juice with leaf juice can be taken with water. Leaf juice with honey is good for urinary ailments. 8. Tulsi: Tulsi wards off the most common ailments, strengthening immunity, fighting bacterial and viral infections and treating hair and skin disorders. The kadha of tulsi leaves with ginger and crushed peppercorn in hot water helps in building the immune system and helps in recovery from Dengue. 9. Satavari: Satavari promotes fertility and has a range of health benefits, particularly for the female reproductive system. It helps to regulate the body‘s systems and improves resistance to stress. It can be taken orally as a tablet, powder or liquid essence. Except for Machika (6), most of the herbs are part of our daily food. 9 Colours and flowers of Navaratri Orange Marigold White Lotus Red Lotus Blue Water Lilly Yellow Water Lilly Green Champa Silver grey Damanaka leaves Purple/ Pink kamal Peacock green Krishna kamal Red Jasvandi Red Rose Red lotus K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 109

. All the Lotuses and water Lillis are Group Captain Ajay Soman‟s collection. The red rose grows in Ruticha‟s garden. The Krishna kamal grows in many Rakshak houses. The red hibiscus or jasvandi blooms along the various roads of Rakshak. The green champa is a creeper that common in many houses. The damanaka leaves are used in garlands also grows in some houses. In the Jagannath temple there is a festival called Damanaka puja to the Goddess Durga. As you can see Rakshak Society is sacred grove of trees, flowers and herbs that are used for various pujas. All of us are familiar with the plants, herbs and flowers as they form part of our culture, tradition and our collective consciousness. This is an attempt to refresh the „already know‟ of the base knowledge. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 110

. The First Postage in the World By Dileep Halbe A system of carriers existed in India for conveying privileged documents from one place to the other even during the pre-British days. This was improved into a ―postal system‖ by the East India Company during Warren Hasting‘s regime (1774-1785) to connect various towns with the Company headquarters in Calcutta when the need for regular communication across the Company‘s jurisdiction arose. Though initially it was for the Company‘s correspondence, the ―postal system‖ started carrying private correspondence also. Madras-to-Calcutta overland route was established in 1770 with a weekly service and a regular system of post was established. A Postmaster-General was appointed on 31st March 1774 and postage was charged for the first time at the rate of 2 annas for every 100 miles / 160 kilometres. A small copper ―ticket‖ of 2 annas value were issued as token of prepayment of conveyance of postage within the realm of the East India Company. This represents the first ever use of a ―stamp‖ in the world, but needless to say, not given such credit – the first stamp issued is considered to be the imperforate Black Penny stamp featuring Queen Victoria‘s head issued 6-8 May 1840, more than 66 years later. India Post commemorated this copper ―ticket‖ with a stamp issued before ―India ‗80‖ International Stamp Exhibition on 25 January 1980, the image of which is shown below. It shows both sides of the copper ticket. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 111

. Knockout Indoor Air Pollution by Dr. Manisha Dinesh Bhosale, What is Indoor Air pollution? Indoor air pollution refers to chemical, biological and physical contamination of indoor air. It may cause adverse health effects. Studies shows that indoor air pollution is considered as one of the major threats to our health. Most of us are unaware that indoor air pollution is 10 times worse than the outdoor air pollution because of chemicals and harmful substances commonly found in household products. The Indoor Air Contaminants Our exposure to indoor air pollution has increased during last eight months, as we have to stay at home due to pandemic. Studies have identified various sources that degrade indoor air quality. Outdoor air pollution that invades indoor areas, poor ventilation, high temperature and humidity, close buildings, synthetic material used for building and furnishing, use of chemical household products, cooking methods, deodorant, detergents, air fresheners, furniture polish etc. can increase concentrations of indoor pollutants. Table 1: List of Indoor Air Pollutants SNO Contaminant Source 1 Asbestos It is a mineral fiber that occurs in rock and soil. It is used in variety of building construction materials for insulation 2 Biological pollutants Include pollen from plants, mite, hair from pets, fungi, parasites, and some bacteria 3 Carbon Monoxide Kitchen, garages, generators and other gasoline powered equipment, tobacco smoke, gas water heaters, wood stoves, 4 Nitrogen Dioxide fireplaces, leaking chimneys and furnaces 5 Particulate Matter Gas stoves, welding, tobacco smoke, kerosene heaters Candles and incense, mosquito coils 6 Radon It is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. When the uranium breaks down, the radon gas get released and enter into buildings. Volatile organic compounds (Acetone, 7 Formaldehyde, Benzene, Perfume, Paint, Plastic, Household Cleaners, Adhesives, Toluene, Xylene, Ethanol, Furniture, Carpet, Paper, particle boards, and insulation foam. Dichloromethane, trichloroethylene) K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 112

. Effects of air pollution on human health According to the World Health Organization, 4.3 million people die due to poor air quality prevailing inside the house every year. Studies also shows increased ill health and mortality from asthma and allergies in several countries. There are serious ill effects of indoor air pollution like cancer or chronic respiratory diseases. Some common symptoms of Indoor Air Pollution are: • Sinus Congestion • Coughing & Sneezing • Dryness or irritation of the nose, eyes, skin and throat • Allergies & Hypersensitivity • Fatigue, Headache • Dizziness and/or Nausea • Upper respiratory congestion • Lethargy, Dizziness • Hearing loss NASA Clean Air study (1989) According to NASA Clean Air Study, certain common indoor plants may also provide a natural way of removing volatile organic pollutants in addition to absorbing CO2 and releasing O2 through photosynthesis process. NASA scientist Dr. B. C. Wolverton has conducted one interesting study regarding use of plants to remove indoor air pollution. He selected few plants and kept them in gas chamber and checked that how plants efficiently removes the pollutants from the air. In this study he introduced different pollutants one by one and studied which plant works on these pollutants. Dr. Wolverton published this report in 1989. He discovered that commonly found varieties but not considered as houseplants are the best filters of common pollutants such as ammonia, formaldehyde, and benzene. He also rated each plant for its effectiveness in removing various pollutants, and its ease of growth and maintenance. On the basis of this study, NASA prepared a list of indoor plants which help to remove or reduce the air pollutants and keep indoor environment fresh and clean. Only increasing the ventilation will not solve the problem. Instead we should accept green living. We should design our homes considering house plants. The study suggested at least one plant per 100 square feet of space for efficient air cleaning. Plants for Healthy Indoor Air By keeping plants indoor, we can have a good connection with nature. It helps to develop stress-free, clean, healthy and beautiful living space. Plants - indoor or outside - are very good for physical as well as mental wellbeing at any age. Houseplants can perform the role of forests inside the home by filtering toxins, pollutants and producing oxygen, moisture and beauty to the space. All these plants are commonly found around us. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 113

. 1. Aloe Vera: It clears formaldehyde and benzene, which can be a byproduct of chemical- based cleaners, paints and other toxins. It is cultivated for agricultural and medicinal purpose. 2. Areca Palm: The plant is useful in filtering xylene and toluene from the air. It also works effectively as an effective humidifier. 3. Aglaonema: This plant is counted among the most durable houseplants you can ever grow. They tolerate poor light, dry air and drought very well. 4. Anthurium: One of the best houseplants that purify indoor air. Their large, dark leaves suck up ammonia, formaldehyde, toluene and xylene. Therefore suggested for a workplace around copiers, printers or adhesives. 5. Arrowhead Plant: This plant help to reduce benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene. They also reduce airborne microbes and increase humidity. 6. English Ivy: This plant absorb air-born toxins such as formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, trichloroethylene, benzene and airborne fecal-matter particles. 7. Fiddly Fig: This plant is very sturdy and provides natural fresh air by absorbing all the toxic chemicals present indoors and thus aids in better sleeping. 8. Ferns: It adds humidity to the indoor environment and removes chemical pollutants from the atmosphere like formaldehydes and heavy metals like arsenic from the soil. 9. Monstera: This is fast growing houseplant with good all round air cleaning properties and particularly effective in humidifying air conditioned interiors. 10. Money Plant: This plant requires very less care. It efficiently removes indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene. 11. Pothos: They are excellent in purifying the air in your home and office space. It removes formaldehyde. 12. Peace Lily: Peace lily removes acetone, trichloroethylene, benzene and formaldehyde. It is easy to grow and maintain. 13. Rubber Plant: Their large leaves can absorb airborne chemicals and break them down, rendering them harmless. 14. Snake Plant: The plant is best suited for bathrooms since it filters out formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. 15. Weeping Fig: Helps against emissions from curtains, carpets and furniture. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 114

. Warning Many indoor plants are known to be toxic to cats, dogs and other pets. If you are pet owner, please check the toxicity of plant before introducing them to your home. Keep your pets and kids away from these plants. References for extra reading: 1. Zhang, Junfeng & Smith, Kirk. (2003). Indoor air pollution: A global health concern. British medical bulletin. 68. 209-25. 2. Ankita Kankaria, Baridalyne Nongkynrih, and Sanjeev Kumar Gupta (2014). Indoor Air Pollution in India: Implications on Health and its Control. 39(4): 203–207. 3. B. C. Wolverton. (1997). How to Grow Fresh Air: 50 House Plants that Purify Your Home or Office 4. B.C. Wolverton, Anne Johnson, M.S. And Keith Bounds. (1989) Interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement 5. The NASA guide to Air-filtering Houseplants - https://www.boredpanda.com/best-air- filtering-houseplants-nasa/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=organic K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 115

. SIMPLE HOME REMEDIES FOLLOWED BY MY FAMILY by Mrs. Bharati Lele First thing in the morning after brushing your teeth : 1. Soak overnight ½ tsp methi (fenugreek) seeds in 1/3rd cup water, and drink it first thing in the morning. This helps reduce digestive problems, soothes muscle cramps, and menstrual cramps. This is good for the liver and kidney health, and balances cholesterol levels in your body. 2. Soak overnight ½ tsp sabja seeds (Turkmania – Basil seeds) in 2 tbsp water, and drink it first thing in the morning. This reduces body heat, relieves constipation, bloating, reduces acidity and heart burn. Also beneficial for weight loss, and for healthy hair and skin. 3. Fill a small copper cup with water at night, and in the morning wash your eyes with the water for clearer vision, and keeping cataract issues at bay. Before breakfast eat the following leaves : 1. Bael (Aegle Marmelos – Bengal Quinch) Benefits – Anti bacterial and anti-fungal properties, helps cure stomach ulcers because the tannin in its leaves, reduces inflammation (vata) in your body. 2. Parijat (Nyctanthes Arbor – Harshringar) Benefits – It is used to treat Dengue, Chikangunya, Malaria and Arthritis. It prevents gas, treats cough, fights breathing problems, and also acts as a natural gentle laxative in the body. It has anti-allergic and anti-viral properties. 3. Shevaga (Oleifera – Moringa) It is very rich in anti-oxidants and vitamins. It relieves stress, lowers blood pressure, and moderates blood sugar levels and cholesterol. It protects against arsenic toxicity. 4. Neem (Azadirachta Indica) It is used for eye disorders, stops nose bleeds. It is also beneficial for intestinal worms, stomach upsets, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, cardio-vascular disease, fever, diabetes and liver problems. 5. Black Tulasi ( Ocimum Tenniflorum – Basil) It dissolves kidney stones, is good for fever and cold. It has nervous system benefits like Parkinsons, paralysis. It helps to enhance mental concentration and immunity in the body. It also helps to combat respiratory disorders, relieves headache, tooth problems and effects of insect sting. (For insect bites, mosquito bites and scorpion bites, apply apple cider vinegar) Ingest two types of seeds during the day. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 116

. 1. Flax seeds which contain Omega-3 fatty acids. They prevent cholesterol from entering the blood stream, and have anti-cancer properties. They help in reducing tumors in the body. 2. Sesame seeds – 1 tsp of sesame seeds per day is a natural source of plant protein, Vitamin B and fibre. It helps in cell formation and healthy bones. Herbal Medicine For Cough, Cold and mild Temperature : In 1 cup water, add 5/6 tulasi (Basil) leaves, 2/3 cloves, a small stick of cinnamon, ½ inch ginger, 2 lemon grass leaves, and rock candy/sugar candy. Boil the mixture and reduce it to half its quantity. Sip this concoction slowly during the day. For Chest Congestion : A few tulasi leaves, a piece of ginger and half an onion to be mixed into a liquid and drank with a tsp of honey. K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 117

. Photographs/Chhayachitra K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 118

Compilation by Mr Snehasis Bose(.Cdr Roy‘s Son-in-law) Ravan Dahan Diwali Killa at Tate‟s Residance K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 119

Compilation by Mr Snehasis Bo.se(Cdr Roy‘s Son-in-law) Kite Flying Flag Hoisting K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 120

Ladies Club and. Rasik Activities K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 121

New Years .Celebration K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 122

. Holika and Holi K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 123

Cricke. t Match K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 124

Photograph. s By Anuya Deo Scaly-breasted Munia Yellow Rumped Sunbird Baya weaver bird /Sugaran Baya weaver bird /Sugaran K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 125

Photogra.phs By Anuya Deo Oriental Magpie Robin Indian Silverbill Coppersmith Barbet K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 126

Photograp.hs By Pinakin Khamboj K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 127

Photographs By. Pinakin Khamboj Black Drongo Shikra Peacock K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 128

Photographs .By Pinakin Khamboj Green bee-eater Great tit Grey Honbill K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 129

. Laughter (Yoga) is the best medicine! Stay safe, Stay healthy!! K a l a m a u r k a l a – T h e R a k s h a k M a g a z i n e Page 130